McConnell: Senate Will Vote This Fall on Replacement for Justice Kennedy

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says his chamber will vote this fall on President Donald Trump's nominee to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy, who announced his retirement Wednesday.

Says the Kentucky Republican, "It's imperative that the president's nominee be considered fairly and not subjected to personal attacks."

McConnell added that he looks forward to another "outstanding selection" from Trump.

Kennedy has long been a key swing vote, so Trump's selection could tilt the court in a more conservative direction for years to come.

The Senate confirmed Trump's first selection to the high court, Neil Gorsuch, in April 2017.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, praised Kennedy's legacy in a statement, and said he expects the nomination process to begin "soon."

"For more than three decades, Justice Kennedy served with great distinction on the Supreme Court of the United States," said Grassley, whose committee will handle the successor's confirmation hearing. "I expect the President will soon nominate someone for the Senate to consider. I encourage the President to choose a nominee with the credentials, intellect and commitment to the rule of law necessary to serve on the Supreme Court."

He added: "I look forward to having the nominee before us in the Senate Judiciary Committee for his or her hearing in the weeks ahead."